Methods for Obtaining a Distribution-Free Prediction Interval for the Median of a Future Sample

Abstract

In this paper some quality control applications of distribution-free prediction intervals for the median of a future sample are described. Methods for obtaining such intervals are presented, and their use is illustrated by examples. Tables are provided for calculating such prediction intervals for small samples; approximations are provided for sample sizes beyond the scope of the tables. The Appendix provides formulae for constructing prediction intervals to contain not only the median of a future sample, but also any future sample percentile.

• Distribution-Free Methods
• Median
• Prediction Interval

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michael A. Fligner

Dr. Fligner is an assistant professor in the Department of Statistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.

Douglas A. Wolfe

Dr. Wolfe is an associate professor in the Department of Statistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.